4 burnt in gas explosion at dyeing factory in Rupganj

At least four people were burnt in a gas explosion and subsequent fire at a dyeing factory in Narayanganj's Rupganj upazila today (1 May).

The injured were admitted into National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery (NIBPS) in Dhaka, said factory authorities.

The explosion, which led to mass panic in the locality, took place at Monju Dyeing and Textile Factory in the Rupshi Kazipara area in Rupganj at 9am, according to factory sources.

Dr Shaon Bin Rahman, resident surgeon of NIBPS, said, "Four patients have arrived from Narayanganj. One of them was released after primary treatment as his injuries were minor."

"The other three patients have 53%, 40%, and 34% burn injuries, respectively. Their tracheas have been burnt, and all of them are in critical conditions," he added. 

Among the injured, three were identified as the factory's accountant Saiful and security guards Kabir and Hannan. The other injured could not be identified immediately.

Abdullah Al Arefin, deputy assistant director of Fire Service and Civil Defence's Narayanganj unit, said, "A firefighting unit went to the factory after we were notified. However, the factory officials doused the fire before we reached the spot. We are currently looking into the cause of the explosion and fire."

Liakat Ali, officer-in-charge of Rupganj Police Station, said, "Police went to the spot upon receiving information about the explosion and fire. Further steps will be taken after an investigation."

According to factory authorities, a wall at the RMS room with the Titas Gas connection collapsed and a fire started when the massive explosion inside the room occurred just after the night shift workers finished their duty and left the factory at 8am.

The technicians and security personnel present at the factory quickly turned off the gas connection and brought the fire under control. Some fabrics and furniture of the factory got burnt in the fire, factory authorities said.